August 9, 2016
Absolutely fabulous science and drama with acting impact images brilliant for great fun and serious learning for all ages and all studies - we live in space age and the birth of colonization is beautiful in the name of survival and destiny for all times......
jja Manhattan, N. Y.
Absolutely fabulous science and drama with acting impact images brilliant for great fun and serious learning for all ages and all studies - we live in space age and the birth of colonization is beautiful in the name of survival and destiny for all times......
jja Manhattan, N. Y.
1
Some might feel that Weir didn't receive his fair share of acclaim for the success of the movie. His was no overnight success; his determined drive bore fruit and his slant on the form was original and popular. Bringing in Scott after the original choice more or less guaranteed excellent production and an able cast. We've been enthusiastically supporting the notion of not leaving anyone behind for many a cinematic year. There has been some mention that the on screen NASA is a glorification. A hats off to nerds is past due. Is there a brilliant future for the world through science and globalization? I suspect it would be one which left a great many behind. Political correctness prevents our hearing, 'Who needs them?'
I really liked what you said about Watney not ever being alone, and the symbolism behind that. I didn't quit notice that when I watched the movie!
Something that stood out to me was the clever reasoning behind the ongoing audible narration from the main character. A video blog makes sense as they are often used on space missions.
Something that stood out to me was the clever reasoning behind the ongoing audible narration from the main character. A video blog makes sense as they are often used on space missions.
1
This film to me seemed like a combination of Breaking Bad (lots of invention using science and chemistry) and Cast Away, with a bit of Gravity and Apollo 13 thrown in for good measure. Truth be told I had high hopes for it but it didn't really live up to its expectations. I will compare it to two other films which I felt were leagues better.
The first is Cast Away, which to me is one of the most sublime movie experiences of the last twenty years. I have watched it numerous times and it never fails to choke me up with its wit and charm and its lesson of the importance of time and how love endures despite everything. I was hoping The Martian might have something of that magic in it but despite Damon's admittedly brilliant performance, it just doesn't scale the same heights.
The other is Moon with Sam Rockwell. That somehow managed to convey the isolation of what Damon's character must have felt more effectively and also made the whole claustrophobic feel of being in space that much more real.
The Martian was certainly entertaining and technically brilliant. Its like the geeks in Big Bang Theory got together and dreamed up their ideal film but it fails to achieve 'future classic' status for me and I so hoped it would.
The first is Cast Away, which to me is one of the most sublime movie experiences of the last twenty years. I have watched it numerous times and it never fails to choke me up with its wit and charm and its lesson of the importance of time and how love endures despite everything. I was hoping The Martian might have something of that magic in it but despite Damon's admittedly brilliant performance, it just doesn't scale the same heights.
The other is Moon with Sam Rockwell. That somehow managed to convey the isolation of what Damon's character must have felt more effectively and also made the whole claustrophobic feel of being in space that much more real.
The Martian was certainly entertaining and technically brilliant. Its like the geeks in Big Bang Theory got together and dreamed up their ideal film but it fails to achieve 'future classic' status for me and I so hoped it would.
Overall it was enjoyable, but...the landscape looked like the Sahara with a red filter, and how is it that at the beginning of the movie, they all had to take off and get outta there, but yet Matt's character could stay and survive the same intense storms?? Whoops!
They had to take off because the MAV (return ship) was in danger of tipping over due to the force of the storm. They were using thrusters in order to keep it upright, within 12 degrees of vertical. Had it tipped, they'd all still be up there, frozen and preserved.
4
I did not know if I would like this sci-fi movie. It turned out to be educational, very interesting and uplifting. the acting was superb and the scenery was so believable and amazing. It made me want to read the book which is just as good. The fact that one actor could hold our attention for so long all alone doing mundane things is a testimoney to Matt Damen.
2
Enjoyed this sunny movie. Yay diverse and inclusive photogenic young scientists! But the idea that NASA suits would be allowed to make these decisions was more than a bit goofy. This rescue mission would have cost more than a year's worth of Medicaid! Obama and Ben Rhodes would have been up all night pondering the PR dimension of this crisis -- to start with they would have not used the word "dead," as Jeff Daniels did. Congress would have been consulted, one hopes, on the bill.
1
I saw The Martian over the weekend - and recalled both The Martian Chronicles, and the Space Program which fascinated me as a boy growing up in the Midwest. I found the film engaging, and while - as some readers have pointed out - predictable - very enjoyable. It is upbeat - it shows a future where technology (applied science) and discovery to explore a future that can capture humankind's imagination. I agree it also paints NASA in a positive light - it was an inspirational organization and one of the reasons I majored in Engineering in college. We need more of this spirit not only in the US - but globally.
3
Seriously off-the-charts review. Some pretty deep insights and perspectives of the meta-physical aspects of this film. Here's a quote to back that up:
"The Earth scenes interrupt these solitary interludes with other faces and voices, keeping the narrative jumping, but they also assert that no matter how lost and seemingly forgotten, no one is alone because to be human fundamentally is to exist with other people. We are social, therefore we are."
"The Earth scenes interrupt these solitary interludes with other faces and voices, keeping the narrative jumping, but they also assert that no matter how lost and seemingly forgotten, no one is alone because to be human fundamentally is to exist with other people. We are social, therefore we are."
Ridley Scott is most cowardly director in film history. The film sanitizes and glamorizes the language and demeanor of the astronaut, and make this film into a boring, safe, sorry exercise. This from the man who was too afraid to use the word "Abortion" in Prometheus. What a disappointment.
2
I had three women sitting behind me who couldn't understand why they shouldn't be talking throughout the movie, so my attention was a little bit divided between the screen and my rising blood pressure, and I imagine that contributed substantially to my opinion, but much as I respected the filmmaking and got thoroughly caught up in the climax, my overriding takeaway was to think about all the resources devoted to rescuing that one life.
Clearly that has to be part of the point -- no one gets left behind on the mission regardless of how much money it takes, how many other lives are risked, how much future research is compromised; and that reaffirms what is good in humanity... Or something.
I wonder what the impact would have been if the filmmaker had intercut scenes from the nightly news on earth? Would the adventure still feel good mixed in with stories about unarmed black teenagers shot by cops?
Maybe. Maybe our hearts would still swell at the idea of NASA-the-Beautiful stopping at nothing to bring that astronaut home. But the version that included the nightly news might also have to justify why the astronaut is worth more than the Syrian refugee desperate enough to cross the Mediterranean in a crowded leaky boat.
Why is the astronaut worth more? Is it because he is smarter? better connected? American?
No. He just lives on life support in the protective bubble of a feel-good movie where nobody dies except by outrageous accident or because they deserve it.
Clearly that has to be part of the point -- no one gets left behind on the mission regardless of how much money it takes, how many other lives are risked, how much future research is compromised; and that reaffirms what is good in humanity... Or something.
I wonder what the impact would have been if the filmmaker had intercut scenes from the nightly news on earth? Would the adventure still feel good mixed in with stories about unarmed black teenagers shot by cops?
Maybe. Maybe our hearts would still swell at the idea of NASA-the-Beautiful stopping at nothing to bring that astronaut home. But the version that included the nightly news might also have to justify why the astronaut is worth more than the Syrian refugee desperate enough to cross the Mediterranean in a crowded leaky boat.
Why is the astronaut worth more? Is it because he is smarter? better connected? American?
No. He just lives on life support in the protective bubble of a feel-good movie where nobody dies except by outrageous accident or because they deserve it.
4
Wow, if you thought the trip to Mars was long, it's nothing compared to watching this movie. Boring, long, problems arise and then are solved in the very same scene. The producers are relying on our experience with other movies to fill in the blanks here. Matt Damon's character has no personality other than some banter with his crewmates. The jokes are lame. The disco thing is a gratuitous excuse to inject recognizable tunes into the proceedings. And it's a nice thought that huge crowds would turn out in public places to watch the rescue, but I have a feeling that most people would be watching at home.
5
Despite all the special effects etc., I found it a real bore. There is never a moment's doubt where this type of movie will end up. Two hours of melodrama, then the music swells and all is well. It's a formulaic typical American crowd pleaser populated with actors from our favorite hit TV show. I'm sorry, but I had to laugh when 'Ned Stark' appeared as a NASA expert.
3
Martian may be fairly compared to Stanley Kubrick's 2001, my absolute favorite which I recently saw projected in it's original 70mm film, but Martian is based on advanced knowledge. Yet it's concept of surviving a flight of many months and so much more is still based on estimates and mathematical calculations. It is a realistic goal but one that I don't expect to see in my lifetime. In the end, Martian was great escapism from the 24 hour news cycle and political ranting and a welcome relief from my humdrum life here in Newton Mass.
I went to see this movie last night and despite being a science / engineering geek, I have to give it a big "Meh."
As others have said in their comments, it was way too predictable. For example, and one point the head NASA guy, commenting on their rescue plan's small margin for error, says something like "We have no room for mishaps" (not the term he used) and literally seconds later, in the very next scene, the music swells ominously and an explosion destroys Watney's potato harvest. Wow - I really didn't see that coming!
As others have said in their comments, it was way too predictable. For example, and one point the head NASA guy, commenting on their rescue plan's small margin for error, says something like "We have no room for mishaps" (not the term he used) and literally seconds later, in the very next scene, the music swells ominously and an explosion destroys Watney's potato harvest. Wow - I really didn't see that coming!
6
I've noticed that when stars reach a certain age -- Paul McCartney, Woody Allen, now Ridley Scott, among others -- they get a free pass by reviewers when they produce substandard work. Manohla Dargis is usually spot on with her reviews, but here she misses the boat entirely. The Martian was predictable, boring and frustrating for its lack respect for the audience's intelligence. Until Hollywood regains an interest in intelligent storytelling and character development, I'm sticking with independent films.
12
holy cow i can't believe this movie was rated a critics pick, for who is the question. the movie is absolute 2D in emotion and acting just simply rubbish...might be ok if your in high school or that's as far as your education progressed. they were using all kinds of street speak from today so they could keep an audience...it was horrible and a waste of time really..did some viewers think the damon character would not survive in flying fashion?
6
Did not seem to add much over gravity or Apollo 13, the later being a true story I found far more interesting. The rescue was too far fetched, and the reaction of the folks at home seemed forced, copy from Apollo 13.
NASA liked to stress how much they valued human life. In Apollo 13 they worked the problem (another line this show steals), but they did not send out rescue missions etc. I wonder in real life if we would go to the lengths in this movie. It reminded me of a talk of climbing Himalayas , they had to pull string and beg to get a helicopter up to save a climber who did not purchase insurance. He then related on his way down how he had to decide whether to save a mother or her child, not having enough antibiotics for both. (He did not make the connection that the cost of the helicopter ride could probably paid many more antibiotics). So this movie left me wondering how many we sacrificed to save this one.
NASA liked to stress how much they valued human life. In Apollo 13 they worked the problem (another line this show steals), but they did not send out rescue missions etc. I wonder in real life if we would go to the lengths in this movie. It reminded me of a talk of climbing Himalayas , they had to pull string and beg to get a helicopter up to save a climber who did not purchase insurance. He then related on his way down how he had to decide whether to save a mother or her child, not having enough antibiotics for both. (He did not make the connection that the cost of the helicopter ride could probably paid many more antibiotics). So this movie left me wondering how many we sacrificed to save this one.
3
Agree with the comments about how derivative the movie is. Also has anyone noted that Damon's character apparently has no friends or family (other than his mom, he says, but she never bothers to show up even when everyone else in the world does). That was a big hole in the plot to me. It would have been nice to see him communicating with SOMEONE back on Earth who was anxious about him. Without that the film has no emotional center.
10
I have read the reviews and comments about this film with much interest. From my point of view as a black female physician (of a certain age), I applaud this movie not just for its well-acted and well-written contributions to cinema but for its role in changing the dialogue and portrayal of black people in a highly intelligent, sophisticated technical environment. Hollywood has generally portrayed my race as feckless wretches in need of saving, such as
The Blind Side, The Help, Precious, Driving Miss Daisy etc, but this movie showed that black folks are not social miscreants, intellectually inferior and are only good for service, entertainment or sports. The pivotal problem-solving, nerdy character played by Donald Glover was enlightening and "who is this Rich Purnell anyway?" had me smiling.
I wasn't going to watch this movie because who wanted to see another film about space fiction. But, I was pleasantly surprised with the strong roles for women and for black men. Unlike the television series, The Big Bang Theory, where there are NO black people in the core cast, suggesting that black people are not that highly intelligent (intrinsic racism), this movie was refreshing and I give kudos to the producers and directors of this film. I would highly recommend it.
The Blind Side, The Help, Precious, Driving Miss Daisy etc, but this movie showed that black folks are not social miscreants, intellectually inferior and are only good for service, entertainment or sports. The pivotal problem-solving, nerdy character played by Donald Glover was enlightening and "who is this Rich Purnell anyway?" had me smiling.
I wasn't going to watch this movie because who wanted to see another film about space fiction. But, I was pleasantly surprised with the strong roles for women and for black men. Unlike the television series, The Big Bang Theory, where there are NO black people in the core cast, suggesting that black people are not that highly intelligent (intrinsic racism), this movie was refreshing and I give kudos to the producers and directors of this film. I would highly recommend it.
21
Agree it was refreshing to see a black main character in a distinguished role, especially because he was written to be a scientist, not a token character. The younger black character though, felt a little buffo-gratuitous to me. Had this been the only black character, it would have been another token offering from Hollywood.
Disappointing, slow, jokey, and flimsy science. Contrary to Mr. Scott's review, I didn't find it to be deep or illuminating in any way about the profound solitude that must be the result of being marooned. I found the various NASA / science geek characters to be cartoonish and stereotypical (bureacratic, cautious boss, nerdy genius grad student, etc.). For my money, the 30-year-old The Right Stuff is still the best and funniest portrait of the bravery and inventiveness of space exploration.
3
Wow. Predictable from Frame One - I knew every character type and plot twist that would show up , and I'm usually the last one in the theater to anticipate that kind of thing. Awful, stilted-to-the-point-of-comical acting by the astronauts other than Damon, who was competent, but not nearly as deeply affected as he should have been. But then, with daily contact with NASA, a good 80 percent of the potential Mars-based drama was gone. The script never freed itself from the gravitational pull of Screenwriting for Hedge Funds - take the ROI of Gravity and multiply it by the inverse of the number of tickets sold to Apollo 13 and voila! I was holding my watch up to the glare of the movie screen within 20 minutes. And finally: can we get a Hollywood/NASA ruling on what happens with propulsion sources in space? These movies where someone presses a button on a can of Febreze and goes flying through space - IN ZERO ATMOSPHERE - are beyond ridiculous. Glad I didn't blow the money to see it in 3D.
5
Just one little nit to pick with your comment: An atmosphere is not required for propulsion. A rocket doesn't need an atmosphere to "push against"; all that is needed is Newton's Third Law (for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction). So, a can of Febreeze could indeed propel you in the vacuum of space.
The scene at the end where he punctures his suit to propel himself toward the rescue ship was thus somewhat plausible, but the forces implied by his erratic motions were almost certainly overstated by a couple orders of magnitude. The pressure in his suit would have been in the 14 psi range, and there is no way that air flowing out of a small rip at 14 psi could have caused all those wild gyrations.
The scene at the end where he punctures his suit to propel himself toward the rescue ship was thus somewhat plausible, but the forces implied by his erratic motions were almost certainly overstated by a couple orders of magnitude. The pressure in his suit would have been in the 14 psi range, and there is no way that air flowing out of a small rip at 14 psi could have caused all those wild gyrations.
1
I liked the optimism of this film - and the old-fashioned story telling. Its themes give me hope.
7
I was trying to stay engaged with these brainy, multi-cultural, beautiful astronauts, but the blatant pandering to Chinese film audiences put me over the edge. Tom Hank's volleyball was more engaging than the actors running China's space program.
2
I enjoyed it, and enjoyed its references to many other stories and movies. Beautifully done. Loved the references to the Council of Elrond- with Boromir right there!
Problems: I can't believe nasa sent whole potatoes for them to eat... Much more likely to be mashed potato flakes.
The Jeff Daniels character was just a straw man.
Problems: I can't believe nasa sent whole potatoes for them to eat... Much more likely to be mashed potato flakes.
The Jeff Daniels character was just a straw man.
I must disagree with Ms. Dargis on this one. Apollo 13 plus Gravity plus Robinson Crusoe on Mars equals seen it all before, with some American exceptionalism thrown in. The latter movie is much more interesting, and at a fraction of the budget. A bore.
5
Don't forget the self-surgery in Master and Commander. My family and I referenced Scotty in the Star Trek franchise as well. We enjoyed it, but didn't take it for more than what it was. Still, it's refreshing to see a film where the explosions are neither gratuitous nor motivated by hate.
2
The thought that occurred to me, here is a movie where there is zero violence. What a pleasant and refreshing change from Hollywood crime, murder, wars, horror shows. The big take away from the movie is that as human beings we have to cooperate with each other and other living things, in order to survive as a species. Not live in competition.
5
I saw the movie in 3D last night and yes, it is visually stunning, another good role for the always convincing Matt Damon, but where it got formulaic for me was: the "I am the God of NASA" one-note performance of Jeff Daniels (he seems to be recast in this same role), the two full-length songs (ABBA??? come on). It took the seriousness of Damon's predicament and his incredible problem-solving to a romp-like feel. The disco song clips were ok up until this part, and lastly the throngs of people watching his rescue in the street; felt like classic jingoism.....
A fine movie other than that!
A fine movie other than that!
1
At a time in history where so many are at each other's throats... It becomes a perfect time to see this feel good movie. Yes Earth there is hope!
5
I'm not a scientist, so I suspended my disbelief and accepted the science, regardless of whether it was accurate or not, and that didn't affect my dislike of the film one way or another. What did, however (and this is my gauge of a good movie) is whether I could predict the plot and the dialogue. Pretty much I was spot on. Boring.
6
"2001, A SpAce Odyssey" or Tarkovsky's"Solaris" this film is not. This is basically a suspense survival film. No study of the human condition or the soul. Just a sketch of problem solving decent all American boy and his space buddies who ask their lives to come back for him without thinking it twice. Not much acting required from many of the astronaut crew (with the exception of Matt Damon, perhaps). Pretty flat characters. Basically a good ad for NASA. Worth seeing, but nothing memorable here. No masterpiece. Nice simulacrum of Mars.
8
'...survive on his own island of despair...'? Really, I don't recall ever seeing even a glimmer of hopelessness and despair on the face of Matt Damon's Watney character. He was too busy wisecracking about the Disco music
8
A big disappointment. All done much better by others - Apollo 13, Contact, etc., etc. This movie is overly predictable, trite, jingoistic, and monodimensional. The worst soundtrack ever.
9
The soundtrack was so terrible it was really distracting.
6
I wanted it to be a smarter movie, the science might go over people's heads, but then we are used to "techno-babble" in our sci fi. We can handle it. I don't know if this movie really demonstrated the intelligence behind space travel. The book on the other hand did a great job of balancing the math with the humor. Key moments were also missed in the movie. In the book, one of the most emotional events was when Mindy Park discovers Watney is alive. That moment was lost in the movie when she is emailed matter-of-factly, "Look at these coordinates." I enjoyed the movie, but I LOVED the book.
10
I saw it last night with my 20 year old son.
I thought it was mediocre. Mr. Scott seemed to be trying to conflate Robinson Crusoe, Apollo 13, 2001, and Cast Away into one coherent film. But it doesn't come close to those classics, and seemed a bit ludicrous at times.
Matt Damon and Jessica Chastain were terrific, as they always are. Some of the survival scenes on Mars were thought-provoking.
The efforts at multi-culturalism were too silly and obvious to be taken seriously. And all the astronauts looked great, especially since they'd been flying around space for a couple of years, some of those years unplanned.
Sorry, too much silliness for a movie that could have been so much better.
I thought it was mediocre. Mr. Scott seemed to be trying to conflate Robinson Crusoe, Apollo 13, 2001, and Cast Away into one coherent film. But it doesn't come close to those classics, and seemed a bit ludicrous at times.
Matt Damon and Jessica Chastain were terrific, as they always are. Some of the survival scenes on Mars were thought-provoking.
The efforts at multi-culturalism were too silly and obvious to be taken seriously. And all the astronauts looked great, especially since they'd been flying around space for a couple of years, some of those years unplanned.
Sorry, too much silliness for a movie that could have been so much better.
16
If you had the patience to scroll through the CREDITS, you would have noticed a truly multicultural behind the scene effort. Hungarian crew, shot in Jordan, Chinese characters, British and American actors, an eclectic team of behind the scene persons whose names you could not pronounce even if you tried hard...A truly international team.
1
God forbid smart people being women, or people with tinted skin!
2
At once very good and very bad, it is an unworthy successor to 2001:A Space Odyssey and/or "Castaway". Overly long, and with a book that is just sit-com, it lost the chance to be a true epic, and to fit its incredible photography.
4
Since "Alien" Ridley Scott has not made a science fiction movie that was worth my money. "The Martian" is totally boring. The forced choice of multicultural characters is cheesy and obvious. The Hispanic character is a stereotype not credible as an astronaut/scientist. This whole movie was obviously pandering to satisfy everyone's ego and pockets. The characters commanding the ship were too young, shallow, inexperienced, and juvenile to be credibly in charge of such an enterprise. Even the staff in NASA was not real. The acting was terrible. I was disappointed with "Prometheus." "The Martian" finally convinced me Ridley Scott's creativity is exhausted.
7
"Since "Alien" Ridley Scott has not made a science fiction movie that was worth my money."
What about "Blade Runner"?
What about "Blade Runner"?
The only exciting part in this movie was the ending. The rest was boring. Even Matt Damon looked bored acting in it and was only thinking about his paycheck.
2
Sorry, Mr. Marsonaut: The yes-no left-right alternative to the question "Are you receiving me?" is utter nonsense. In which case the camera should pan to the right? Don't lose your logic in such a marsed up situation!
This is the best of the recent space operas, IMHO. It's got suspense and drama, outstanding CGI special effects, a GREAT sense of humor, a WONDERFUL use of pop music - who knew disco could be so good? - homage to Kubrick [note the rotating portion of a ship while the female captain runs on a treadmill, among other shots and the pursuit aoutside teh ship of the astronaut - this one alive, unlike dead Frank Poole]. And it has good acting performances.
Highly recommended in these parts.
Highly recommended in these parts.
11
If Matt Damon is your Jimmy Stewart you have my sympathy. My Jimmy Stewart is better than your Jimmy Stewart.
5
Ultimately I liked The Martian but it could have been better. The scenes with Damon on Mars are fantastic and enthralling. The scenes with NASA and others on Earth are generally full of painfully weak caricatures that bring the entire film down. Some of the scenes are downright laughable in their generic nature. Stick with Damon and Mars, cut the others.
5
Enjoyed the movie, although I think the script didn't do justice to the full character of the book's marooned hero, Mark Watney. The book went to great lengths to emphasize Watney's skills in mechanical engineering to problem solve dozens of complex issues. The movie made it seem that Watney primarily was good at growing potatoes and using duct tape, and came across as sort of a Martian day laborer. In the book, he was much more the applied scientist problem solver. In fact, Martian is essentially an homage to the "can do" spirit of engineers who are trained to keep their wits about them when things are spinning out of control.
10
Did we see the same film? This is really an uninteresting movie with no tension and bizarre holes. For example, why does a man with limited water shower and shave regularly? Why bother with a skinny body double for one scene when Damon is in obvious Bourne shape the whole time?
Must admit, like the rest of the Hong Kong audience, we laughed at the scenes featuring the Chinese space team. Scott is a master of casting? C'mon.
ugh. Just ugh.
Must admit, like the rest of the Hong Kong audience, we laughed at the scenes featuring the Chinese space team. Scott is a master of casting? C'mon.
ugh. Just ugh.
8
Totally agree. Since much of screen time involved techno-gibberish dialogue that undermined any momentum the plot was building, I found myself not only laughing, but yawning. Since I "knew" the film would resolve happily with what turned out to be less than compelling scene with Damon and Chastain circling ridiculously in space, I almost walked out of the theatre about 2/3 of the way through.
Manohla Dargis, I used to pretty much rely on your cinema sensibilities and considered them similar to my own. However, if you could feel so strongly about this film, I have to question your critical protocols. The dialogue in this film was truly laughable. And there really was only a very feeble attempt to portray the existential Crusoe-like dilemna that confronted Damon. The Strugatsky brothers in the novel ROADSIDE PICNIC and their screenplay for Tarkovsky's film THE STALKER much more effectively integrate dramatic philosophical and psychological themes into a sci-fi setting.
I keep getting burned by having high expectations for what is essentially big-ticket mainstream trash.
Manohla Dargis, I used to pretty much rely on your cinema sensibilities and considered them similar to my own. However, if you could feel so strongly about this film, I have to question your critical protocols. The dialogue in this film was truly laughable. And there really was only a very feeble attempt to portray the existential Crusoe-like dilemna that confronted Damon. The Strugatsky brothers in the novel ROADSIDE PICNIC and their screenplay for Tarkovsky's film THE STALKER much more effectively integrate dramatic philosophical and psychological themes into a sci-fi setting.
I keep getting burned by having high expectations for what is essentially big-ticket mainstream trash.
4
Back in the day, I got on the bus to go across town see ALIEN on the biggest screen in town, at least 3 times. It was groundbreaking as well as thrilling. It was the first time I had ever seen a dirty space ship with liquids dripping everywhere. It was totally different than Stanley Kubricks 2001 A Space Odyessy from 1968. Which is another one of all time favorite Sci-Fi films.
For years no other Sci-fi film caught my attention until James Cameron's ALIENS!
The Martian in my personal opinion is Ridley Scott's best work since 1979's ALIEN. I could be off-base, but I putting "The Martian" in the Top Ten of the best Sci-Fi Movies of all time. The only element missing it the Jimmy Hendrix song from the Trailer and Sigorney Weaver as Director of NASA.
I had a wonder film going Experience. Saw it in 3D even. Since 4 2 0 in now legal in Oregon, it even added more to my experience.
Long Live Sci-Fi.
Oregon Movie Lover.
For years no other Sci-fi film caught my attention until James Cameron's ALIENS!
The Martian in my personal opinion is Ridley Scott's best work since 1979's ALIEN. I could be off-base, but I putting "The Martian" in the Top Ten of the best Sci-Fi Movies of all time. The only element missing it the Jimmy Hendrix song from the Trailer and Sigorney Weaver as Director of NASA.
I had a wonder film going Experience. Saw it in 3D even. Since 4 2 0 in now legal in Oregon, it even added more to my experience.
Long Live Sci-Fi.
Oregon Movie Lover.
6
420--hahaha!
But top ten sci-fi films? hmmmmm, let's see:
2001
Star Wars & Empire Strikes Back
Alien
Aliens
Blade Runner
Serenity
Avatar
Jurassic Park (the first one only)
A Clockwork Orange (does futuristic dystopian count as sci-fi?)
Terminator 2: Judgment Day
Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan
Nope, not the top ten. (And the above, btw, was not in order of my ranking. Just the first--well, 12--great sci-fi movies I could think of. I'm sure I'm forgetting some.)
But top ten sci-fi films? hmmmmm, let's see:
2001
Star Wars & Empire Strikes Back
Alien
Aliens
Blade Runner
Serenity
Avatar
Jurassic Park (the first one only)
A Clockwork Orange (does futuristic dystopian count as sci-fi?)
Terminator 2: Judgment Day
Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan
Nope, not the top ten. (And the above, btw, was not in order of my ranking. Just the first--well, 12--great sci-fi movies I could think of. I'm sure I'm forgetting some.)
I am a Ridley Scott fan.However I walked out on this one after an hour,boring and predictable.Was especially dismayed by Jeff Daniels recycling his character
from The Newsroom .
from The Newsroom .
1
Thanks for saving me the time and $$. Since I am not a sci-fi fan, was only going to see what all the praise for Damon was about.
2
I am uncomfortable with ferris wheels that go too high. Yet, I thought the space scenes were spectacular. I also enjoyed the depictions of the women astronauts who appeared to swim inside the their spacecraft. The story reminded me of Jules Verne. I thought the movie well worth the admission charge even the add on for 3D.
4
I just saw the movie, with my 14 year old daughters and 28yo gf. I'm 71. Yes, it is a good and enjoyable movie, and we all enjoyed it. Matt Damon does an excellent job, as does the rest of the cast. One daughter and I like science fiction, one daughter and gf just like good movies. We were all happy. As for the viewing public critics: Why worry about how versions of this have been done before? (I wonder if even Robinson Crusoe was the first?) Why get all wound up about the science? If you can't willfully suspend your disbelief, if you don't have any imagination, if you can't imagine how it would be to be in that predicament, why boast about that in public, as if your personal failures are some sort of virtue? Meanwhile, it is a beautifully done and charming movie, graceful and big.
20
I saw "Alien" the day it was released in 1979. Now, most films are released on the same day everywhere (excepting premieres); however, in those days many films were released in different cities on different days. I had a very close sibling who liked many of the same films as I did. When one of us found something exceptional, we would telephone the other (we lived far apart) and recommend it. We had 1 rule: NEVER give up anything about the film. She called me, and said "Go see this, you will love it". Since I had not seen any trailers, I had no idea what it was about; illegal aliens? What could it be? 10 of us went to the local theatre, which had a whopping 4 screens. "Moonraker" was released the same day there, so everyone except me HAD to see the new "Bond" film. I managed to drag 1 of my friends with me. He was TERRIFIED. I was blown away! It was brilliant! I would never be the same. Sigourney Weaver as the heroine! I clearly understood it was a horror film, but in the guise of sci-fi. I took all of my friends I could find, and went back 3 days in a row to see it agin. I haven't seen "The Martian"; what I have seen & read, it has humor, and in sci-fi! ("Firefly" fans know this; cowboys in space with humor!). In the director's commentary of "Alien", Mr. Scott (modestly) mentions he was proud of his "body scanner", mentioning Kubrick's "2001". I agreed 100%. I've always wanted to see Ridley Scott direct Matt Damon. I bet this is as good as I hope! Please pardon my digressing.
7
I knew nothing about Alien when I saw it. Brilliant cast. Everymen and women, not heroes, working together on a space ship. Excellent cast. The scene at the end where Sigourney Weaver fights the alien while singing "You are my Lucky Star" to herself almost had me in tears. A female heroine in a male-dominated genre--wow!
7
Loved "Alien" (and "Aliens"--the others in the series were weak), but it has one of the all-time shocking, truly horrifying, gross-out scenes ever filmed. (Well, as far as I know. I'm not a fan of horror movies so I'm sure there's much worse. The one in "Alien" I was unprepared for and made to feel terror or horror like in the old Greek tragedies.)
And I agree about Sigourney Weaver: what a revelation she was as the first (?) female action star (in both of the first two in the series). Loved her, loved the art direction, loved the simple plot, loved the awe of the discovery of alien life.
Truly a classic. Ridley Scott has a few on his resume (Blade Runner, Thelma and Louise, others I'm forgetting, and now The Martian).
And I agree about Sigourney Weaver: what a revelation she was as the first (?) female action star (in both of the first two in the series). Loved her, loved the art direction, loved the simple plot, loved the awe of the discovery of alien life.
Truly a classic. Ridley Scott has a few on his resume (Blade Runner, Thelma and Louise, others I'm forgetting, and now The Martian).
Lets hope they fixed the first scene where a 175kph windstorm sweeps away everything. This windstorm is equivalent to about 5 mph on earth since mars' air density is about 0.6% that of earth's (although gravity is only a 1/3rd). Andy had so many monotonous calculations in the book it was odd that he had so many wrong so wrong.
1
He knew the windstorm calculations were wrong, but needed the drama at the beginning to kick things off. Art trumps science sometimes!
From an NPR article, quoting Mr. Weir:
"I had an alternate beginning in mind where they're doing an engine test on their ascent vehicle, and there's an explosion and that causes all the problems. But it just wasn't as interesting and it wasn't as cool. And it's a man-versus-nature story. I wanted nature to get the first punch." -- http://www.npr.org/2015/09/27/443192327/sandstorms-explosions-potatoes-o...
From an NPR article, quoting Mr. Weir:
"I had an alternate beginning in mind where they're doing an engine test on their ascent vehicle, and there's an explosion and that causes all the problems. But it just wasn't as interesting and it wasn't as cool. And it's a man-versus-nature story. I wanted nature to get the first punch." -- http://www.npr.org/2015/09/27/443192327/sandstorms-explosions-potatoes-o...
7
I liked it. It reminded me of Apollo 13. I thought it was very similar to that, in theme and in its structure.
3
Unsurprisingly, the Times reviewer, and many of the commentators, miss the brilliant interleaving of the drama that one expects from a thriller with the rational use of scientific knowledge to a purpose. This is much more than McGyver or Robinson Crusoe. Weir's ingenuity and Damon's charm and Ridley's filming make it so. Pity that no reviewer at the Times cares a whit for the dramatization of science and reason, so faithful to a brilliant book.
17
I leave it to others to question Matt Damon as lead, and to critique the science (English major here). As a long-time Ridley Scott fan, I look forward to seeing this film. And apart from the brilliant Alien (and Stanley Kubrick's 2001), I don't even like science fiction movies!
2
I always not: "Alien" is a horror film first, sci-fi second.
And a very good horror film at that.
It is both! And at the same time!
1
Recently saw this film and it was well done and crafted. In my opinion, it's more than a science fiction tale, but more on surviving against all odds and this just happens to be on Mars.
Ridley Scott and Drew Goddard definitely nailed it with this film and greatly adapted the material from the original book by Andy Weir. Scott proves he can still has directive power in his vision of storytelling, regardless of negative reviews on his previous three films. I personally enjoyed Prometheus as a science fiction film and The Martian is a real human story told well.
Ridley Scott and Drew Goddard definitely nailed it with this film and greatly adapted the material from the original book by Andy Weir. Scott proves he can still has directive power in his vision of storytelling, regardless of negative reviews on his previous three films. I personally enjoyed Prometheus as a science fiction film and The Martian is a real human story told well.
7
Did you get the feeling that you've seen this movie before? Well, if you saw "Red Planet" in 2000, then you know that the rescue scene with the tether as well as the rigging of the abandoned rover are ideas originally depicted in RP, though they are done better in "The Martian" in most respects; that said, the transfer vehicle's crash into the orbiting spaceship was more dramatic in "Red Planet" than Matt Damon wrapping his tether around the disco-loving commander during his rescue in "The Martian".
1
Not nice of you to be such a spoiler!
3
I would have liked to have seen Mark Watney cast younger (30s and someone like Garret Hedlund starring) but then Scott would not have had his now obligatory above the line star to market the movie. The book was far better than the movie but it was enjoyable despite some glaring differences. Funny how Matt Damon and Jessica Chastain were both cast in Interstellar, this time Damon was marooned--again but Chastain got to go into space.
1
Ridley Scott is one of my very favorite directors from his ability to make the environment into a character to the very real faces he uses to populate his films. I have yet to watch one of his directors cuts that wasn't a better picture than what Hollywood ultimately forces him to release.
I keep wondering when they will wise up and give him and Academy Award. Perhaps The Martian will be it.
I keep wondering when they will wise up and give him and Academy Award. Perhaps The Martian will be it.
4
Didn't see movie yet but the whole idea of focusing on outer space seems to reflect a lack of original thinking and ideas. 2001 Space Odyssey at least gave a visual sense of what was to be years later. The movie in many ways was more advanced than the technology; just like the Jetsons have turned out to be. Together they take away focus from Planet Earth's problems, mainly among and caused by humans. Now if the planet had its act together, socially and ecologically and economically for example, speculating about outer space would have more impact and sense for more people. Why colonize and repeat the same mistakes over there.
MARS What's there anyhow? I think it is important for the purpose of developing the scientific understanding of the universe, that we continue to seek to extend our knowledge. I think that the technological spinoffs of scientific exploration and discoveries are its most significant outcomes. For example, when developing components that would survive the rigors of space travel, the focus was on decreasing size and weight--miniaturization. The spinoffs of what began in the 50s have morphed into the basis for advancing computer technology that is the basis for much of the communication on earth. I'm not sure exactly what spinoffs could result from a trip to Mars, but I'm pretty certain that at 67 I won't be around to learn about the details. What I also believe is, that as with earlier ideas of space colonies, both self-contained and on other planets, the challenges in having living organisms survive will prove far more daunting that we would like to believe. Meanwhile, I think it's enjoyable to have talented actors like Matt Damon and the team that created the film, give us some interesting fantasies until, one day, we actually set foot on Mars.
2
This movie review makes me wish Roger Ebert was still with us, so he could come in and sweep away the artery clogging hyperbole and get decisively to the point. The book was great. If the movie is half as good as the book, it will be worth seeing. When I see the movie on Thursday where I live, then I will make up my own mind as to how good the movie is.
Sorry, but Matt Damon is no more Jimmy Stewart than Donald Trump is qualified to be President of the United States.
Read the book and saw the movie. Outstanding story line. Matt Damon nails "The Martain".
9
A movie that was truly inspiring without being hokey. In todays world which seems to focus on what divides us; "The Martian" was a story that without a drop of sentimentality showed us what could unite us. With a cast of diverse background, with a celebration of American ingenuity, showing nice touches of humor, and containing a rousing international cheering section at the end, the movie captured a hopeful era where the entire human race pulled together on the same oar with not a drop of selfishness.
8
Loved the movie: story line, acting, oh, and the setting. SPOILER: I had a passing thought at the world cheering at the end...how simply touching and unlike today's news to have the world cheering for a good outcome...for one man, yet!
Ridley Scott is a treasure.
Ridley Scott is a treasure.
1
I quite enjoyed this move, which says a lot since I am not a movie going person. I feel bad for those who have commented about the scientific inaccuracy of the movie. It really comes across as bitter criticism of someone who may have lost the magic of discovery from their childhood. I'm glad I can sit back and enjoy this work for what it is. A wonderful journey about the determination of a man to survive at all costs and the efforts of the rest of the world to help him.
Go enjoy the movie, its visuals, and the great story. Just remember its not a technical manual for survival on Mars, it is far better.
Go enjoy the movie, its visuals, and the great story. Just remember its not a technical manual for survival on Mars, it is far better.
15
The characters of this movie are excessively cool and smart, and always are in control in a desperate situation. All is lost, with only one actor and no dialogues, have far more suspense and emotion that The Martian. The movie lose a comparison with Apolo 13 as well.
1
It's amazing that the US can find trillions of dollars to waste on stupid, pointless wars and a bloated, unnecessary military, but can't find the money to keep NASA afloat. NASA means more to the entire world than anything American military catastrophe.
48
We are a smaller people now, Shaun, than the giants of the Apollo era. I mean that not only about our politicians but the electorate and those who can't be bothered to vote, blissed out on whatever they hold in their palms. We don't even go to fight our wars, but send a tiny sliver of our own, or drones, and then offer a lame "thank you for your service."
Maybe films like "The Martian" can awaken something heroic and pro-scientific in a younger generation. We could use some of that spirit again. We are a small, fearful, and angry people now. Not giants.
Maybe films like "The Martian" can awaken something heroic and pro-scientific in a younger generation. We could use some of that spirit again. We are a small, fearful, and angry people now. Not giants.
18
Not only keep NASA afloat, but AMTRACK as well.
1
Oh wow, Peak Oiler. Very eloquent. I just wish it weren't so true. Sadly it will take something other than a movie to awaken the sleeping giant.
My hopes ride with the kids of Gen Z. The post-millennials. My grandkids, actually. I have great hope. I just pray I live to see it blossom.
My hopes ride with the kids of Gen Z. The post-millennials. My grandkids, actually. I have great hope. I just pray I live to see it blossom.
1
I fear that my expectations are too high... seeing it today.
1
I'm rather a strange beast being someone who, at age 65, enjoys watching Japanese animated series. For people looking for another well-made story about astronauts, I heartily recommend the series called "Space Brothers" about two Japanese men who follow their boyhood dream to become astronauts. They begin their training at the Japanese Space Agency (JAXA) and later transfer to Houston to work with NASA. There are 99 (yes, 99) half-hour episodes, and you can watch them for free (with subtitles) at http://www.crunchyroll.com/space-brothers.
The show contains many little tributes to other movies about astronauts, particularly The Right Stuff and Apollo 13. For instance, the producers included the scene from the Right Stuff where the candidates demonstrate their lung capacity by blowing into a tube of water to elevate a ping-pong ball. Sadly they did not also choose to include the hilarious later scene from that movie where the candidates are required to provide sperm samples.
The show contains many little tributes to other movies about astronauts, particularly The Right Stuff and Apollo 13. For instance, the producers included the scene from the Right Stuff where the candidates demonstrate their lung capacity by blowing into a tube of water to elevate a ping-pong ball. Sadly they did not also choose to include the hilarious later scene from that movie where the candidates are required to provide sperm samples.
4
I thought Tom Hanks was supposed to be our modern-day Jimmy Stewart.
4
you beat me to the punch.....
We can have two - and likely benefit from it.
1
First time I saw a trailer for the Damon film I instantly thought "Robinson Crusoe on Mars", a book I read as a kid (with the original "Robinson Crusoe"). Proving, I suppose, that every idea is recycled. Nothing is actually new under the Sun.
I probably won't see it, not because it isn't well-made but because I've grown weary and impatient with faux science and basic physics mistakes filmmakers make in Sci/Fi. "Gravity" got so much wrong it lost my interest. Probably it's most laughable sequence involved Bullock's navigation to a distant space station as if it was a taxi-stand outside some big hotel in Manhattan; the space-debris destructo-derby sequences a close second. Clooney was impossible.
Mars is much colder than Antarctica most of its year. Its gravity is a fraction of Earth's, why it can't hold onto an atmosphere to the extent ongoing geologic and biologic processes generate new gas. Because it lacks a magnetosphere Mars' surface is swept by radiation from the sun and cosmos. Its regolith (dirt) is toxic because the differentiation processes (weathering) that put those same toxic chemicals and metals beneath Earth's oceans, then locked them deep inside Earth's mantle never happened there. Martian dust is thought to be lethal if inhaled, the finest particles too small to be kept out of life-support systems.
It's another world. Our bodies aren't adapted to survive there and technology we can envision can't overcome that, making it difficult to suspend disbelief.
I probably won't see it, not because it isn't well-made but because I've grown weary and impatient with faux science and basic physics mistakes filmmakers make in Sci/Fi. "Gravity" got so much wrong it lost my interest. Probably it's most laughable sequence involved Bullock's navigation to a distant space station as if it was a taxi-stand outside some big hotel in Manhattan; the space-debris destructo-derby sequences a close second. Clooney was impossible.
Mars is much colder than Antarctica most of its year. Its gravity is a fraction of Earth's, why it can't hold onto an atmosphere to the extent ongoing geologic and biologic processes generate new gas. Because it lacks a magnetosphere Mars' surface is swept by radiation from the sun and cosmos. Its regolith (dirt) is toxic because the differentiation processes (weathering) that put those same toxic chemicals and metals beneath Earth's oceans, then locked them deep inside Earth's mantle never happened there. Martian dust is thought to be lethal if inhaled, the finest particles too small to be kept out of life-support systems.
It's another world. Our bodies aren't adapted to survive there and technology we can envision can't overcome that, making it difficult to suspend disbelief.
11
...what a....nerd...
2
you should actually read the book before making this judgement... the science is very well thought through.
5
I read the book. Unless th movie messes it up, the science is good.
1
Wait - Manohla Dargis has given a positive review to s Sci-Fi movie? There is life on Mars!
8
Anything the wonderful Mat does is okay with reviewers. If he stared in Heaven's Gate it would have been dubbed a classic.
@Eddie:
She's one of those alien visitors profiled in "Men In Black". Now, that was some great movie ... precisely because it took nothing seriously. It spoofed the genre itself, the all-too- familiar (if not to say "hackneyed") themes, scenes, setups, gimmicks and mcguffins. Threw rotten tomatoes at them.
She's one of those alien visitors profiled in "Men In Black". Now, that was some great movie ... precisely because it took nothing seriously. It spoofed the genre itself, the all-too- familiar (if not to say "hackneyed") themes, scenes, setups, gimmicks and mcguffins. Threw rotten tomatoes at them.
There is a movie called "John Carter of Mars" that deals with that. It bombed, but everybody who read Burroughs at 14 loved it. I know I did.
Wait, what about John Carter and Tars Tarkas? What happened to Barsoom?
I'm looking forward to seeing this movie. I am a big fan of Ridley Scott and Matt Damon.
I'm looking forward to seeing this movie. I am a big fan of Ridley Scott and Matt Damon.
It was stunningly good. I loved it. No guns, no murder, no sneering sociopaths, no bulging biceps, no car chases, no perverted sex, no T& A, no gratuitous violence: a fresh experience and, really, a relief! I think I felt this way about "Cast Away." It's been a long, long time.
Bravo.
Bravo.
81
I put Sharon's comments on my FB page. Thank you Sharon.
1
You left out the F-bombs. Of course, If I were alone on Mars I might drop a few too.
1
I enjoyed the book very much, despite the most obvious scientific flaw* being the key plot point. I think Matt Damon will do an excellent job of playing an irreverent, wisecracking Martian MacGyver.
*There isn't enough atmospheric density on Mars for even a 150mph wind to present much more than a very modest breeze for a human. The dust is a mechanical problem, but not the windspeed.
*There isn't enough atmospheric density on Mars for even a 150mph wind to present much more than a very modest breeze for a human. The dust is a mechanical problem, but not the windspeed.
10
@Sam:
Re: manned exploration of Mars -
Martian dust isn't just an environmental hazard, it's a deal-breaker. There's nothing remotely like it on Earth, why it's depicted so benignly and unrealistically in movies plotted around the ordeals of men on the Martian surface..
On Earth, ambient water-vapor and ozone filter dust and airborne grit from the lower atmosphere while it's still relatively large. Water hydrolyzes toxic metals embedded in dust particles so free oxygen radicals and ozone can bind with it, oxidize it, turn it into water-soluble salts that then precipitate into the ocean (as rain) and drift to the bottom sediments -- where they get buried. Eventually, these sediments subduct into the mantle where heat and pressure convert them into minerals.
That's how the Planet Earth filters the air we breathe, the same air we pollute with such carefree abandon.
On Mars, no such system exists. No water. No rain. No ocean to act as a toxic metal sink. No subduction. No mineralization. Ergo, no filter. And the most dangerous particles aren't tiny. They aren't even microscopic. They are nano-scopic. Should any get inside your lungs -- and they will, because there's no way to keep them out -- you will develop Pleurisy-like symptoms so severe you will asphyxiate.
Re: manned exploration of Mars -
Martian dust isn't just an environmental hazard, it's a deal-breaker. There's nothing remotely like it on Earth, why it's depicted so benignly and unrealistically in movies plotted around the ordeals of men on the Martian surface..
On Earth, ambient water-vapor and ozone filter dust and airborne grit from the lower atmosphere while it's still relatively large. Water hydrolyzes toxic metals embedded in dust particles so free oxygen radicals and ozone can bind with it, oxidize it, turn it into water-soluble salts that then precipitate into the ocean (as rain) and drift to the bottom sediments -- where they get buried. Eventually, these sediments subduct into the mantle where heat and pressure convert them into minerals.
That's how the Planet Earth filters the air we breathe, the same air we pollute with such carefree abandon.
On Mars, no such system exists. No water. No rain. No ocean to act as a toxic metal sink. No subduction. No mineralization. Ergo, no filter. And the most dangerous particles aren't tiny. They aren't even microscopic. They are nano-scopic. Should any get inside your lungs -- and they will, because there's no way to keep them out -- you will develop Pleurisy-like symptoms so severe you will asphyxiate.
1
Andy Weir, the author has conceded your point publicly, but makes the very good point that unless the storm happens as he depicts it, there is no story. He has also conceded the radiation issue raised elsewhere in these posts.
Having read the book and seen the movie (this morning) my plausibility suspenders are in good shape. The story works; science fiction is no place to learn science (or historical novels any place to learn history).
Having read the book and seen the movie (this morning) my plausibility suspenders are in good shape. The story works; science fiction is no place to learn science (or historical novels any place to learn history).
Based on an exceptional book by Andy Weir that provides the imaginative and detailed case for Mars survival. Great reading.
6
Correction to the author. "...the dark side of the moon." does not exist. Just a far side.
3
There is no spoon.
I just read the book TWICE! In one week! So of course I will be seeing the movie! This is fantastic old-school problem solving and a desperate struggle for survival all in one.
In case you missed it, there are more details in John Schwartz' Sept. 9 article, or click on this link to the popular nerd science comic strip XKCD for a snappy summary (no plot giveaways): https://xkcd.com/1536/
Also, NASA has an interactive map of Mars at http://marstrek.jpl.nasa.gov to follow the action. And naturally, nerds have been there and plotted that (spoiler alert!): http://nerdist.com/you-can-now-plot-the-martians-trek-with-nasas-help/
Go science!
In case you missed it, there are more details in John Schwartz' Sept. 9 article, or click on this link to the popular nerd science comic strip XKCD for a snappy summary (no plot giveaways): https://xkcd.com/1536/
Also, NASA has an interactive map of Mars at http://marstrek.jpl.nasa.gov to follow the action. And naturally, nerds have been there and plotted that (spoiler alert!): http://nerdist.com/you-can-now-plot-the-martians-trek-with-nasas-help/
Go science!
10
Cute. But - did't they need his weight to carry them home, else the returning crew would have missed earth? And aren't we as a species very fixated by dead bodies - we scale everest and plumb the deep for remains to give a proper burial - you'd think an astronauts' remains would be something his crewmembers would retrieve. Anyway. Won't be seeing this. Matt Damon should have kept his own mystery alive and not been flapping his lips so much lately about his warped views on diversity, wanting gays back in the closet and his old friend BenFleck. I am starting to get him confused with Marky Mark in the face and words he's got...
1
the "warped views" are held by the bigots who only read gossip written by the textarazzi and fail to understand that all he said was that actors should not have to reveal their sex lives in order to pursue their craft.
flapping minds of dull witted people are a problem, not any alleged flapping lips attributed to this actor.
flapping minds of dull witted people are a problem, not any alleged flapping lips attributed to this actor.
18
Matt Damon didn't say the things he was quoted as saying. It's documented.
3
Great writing here and I love how MD keeps assuming that film is still an art and that we all agree that this is true. Not all movie reviewers make that assumption -- nice to see it here.
16
Hmmm... Reminds me a lot of Robinson Crusoe on Mars from 1964:
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0058530/
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0058530/
3
Or "Red Planet" from 2000.
1
The Martian is one of the best reads I've had in years. As a fervent space/Mars enthusiast myself I was taken with previously self published author-Andy Weir's attention to detail and fact. I hope this is reflected in the movie. There's a chance that it will hook the younger generations who, when seeking adventure, will turn to space exploration rather than joining the military and risk getting shot, blown up or mentally destabilized. If the US spent the money on space/NASA that they do on military spending, America would probably be farming and manufacturing on Mars by now.
BTW-there's an interesting back story to Weir himself and his struggle to get published so he went independent and published through Createspace. Previously conventionally published three times myself (Dell/Random House, Nimbus etc.) I too am published by Createspace, one of the only publishers of note that does not want money from you to print your book. Createspace however is shunned by the booksellers because they will not take back books from the sellers that don't sell and therefore an Indie book will not see shelf space. My recent novel, Blood Shock has suffered the same early exposure pains as The Martian.
BTW-there's an interesting back story to Weir himself and his struggle to get published so he went independent and published through Createspace. Previously conventionally published three times myself (Dell/Random House, Nimbus etc.) I too am published by Createspace, one of the only publishers of note that does not want money from you to print your book. Createspace however is shunned by the booksellers because they will not take back books from the sellers that don't sell and therefore an Indie book will not see shelf space. My recent novel, Blood Shock has suffered the same early exposure pains as The Martian.
6
Create is shunned because most of the material published there is drek.
Ridley Scott can't hold a candle to the likes of Ford, Hitchcock, Fincher, Spielberg. And at 2 1/2 hours (Scott needs to find a talented film editor), you need more originality of story and action to prevent nodding off. That Dargis likes it, as she did, "The Visit," whose failed "selfie-cinematography" gave me headaches, is enough reason to buy a coffee and not expect much.
1
GET OFF MY MARTIAN LAWN!!
14
I am reminded of the science fiction story whose premise was that humankind originated on Mars, whose ecosystems were something like those of Earth. Having destroyed our native Martian environment in our relentless quest for comfort and riches, we humans then colonized this plant and have proceeded to destroy it ever since.
6
Had we not abandoned our manned space program in the early 1970s, we would no doubt have had people on Mars by now. Werner von Braun first proposed a Mars program in the 1940s that most think would have succeded. Von Braun's program was scaled back to be a Moon program that we sometimes called the Saturn Program.
If we kept moving forward, we would also probably have permanent colonies on the Moon and on Mars by now. The knowledge we would have gained about our world, our solar system, our universe, and ourselves would have been enormous, but we threw it all away for very dubious reasons despite the promises that human space exploration offered.
More important, had we continued, we would no doubt have a very different view of ourselves and our place in the universe. Much of what troubles us today would no doubt be seen in a totally different perspective and have a very different importance. Our understandings of what life means would also be very different.
For many of us who were just becoming adults at the abandonment of the Saturn Program there is a deep sense that our elders abandoned our heritage and squandered our future. While some of us might still live to see humans on Mars, we will probably never know what that could have meant to us, our future, and the future of humankind.
If we kept moving forward, we would also probably have permanent colonies on the Moon and on Mars by now. The knowledge we would have gained about our world, our solar system, our universe, and ourselves would have been enormous, but we threw it all away for very dubious reasons despite the promises that human space exploration offered.
More important, had we continued, we would no doubt have a very different view of ourselves and our place in the universe. Much of what troubles us today would no doubt be seen in a totally different perspective and have a very different importance. Our understandings of what life means would also be very different.
For many of us who were just becoming adults at the abandonment of the Saturn Program there is a deep sense that our elders abandoned our heritage and squandered our future. While some of us might still live to see humans on Mars, we will probably never know what that could have meant to us, our future, and the future of humankind.
61
While I pretty much heartily agree, seeing von Braun lionized makes me want to throw up.
2
If our elders squandered our future, WE are now squandering that of our children and their descendants by destroying the planet we live on!
3
So let's make this happen. Smart folks on deck! No need waiting for another JFK to capture our collective imagination - perhaps Ridley's movie, rather than creating a scary series (Alien), will once more turn our eyes to the heavens. Nothing braces the human soul like feeling connected to something big.
3
I feel compelled to point out to Ms. Dargis that there is no "dark side of the moon." There is a far side of the moon, but it receives just as much light as the near side. It's just not visible from the Earth.
9
Both the moon and the earth have dark sides. It's when the sun is on the other side! Ask any astronaut who's been.
5
Most know this as a "figure of speech" based our Earth perspective, as well it is used poetically (dark side of the mind, shadow side). You are correct that (from Earth perspective) it is a relative "far side" but just as Earth has it's night and day - and shades in between (dusk and dawn) so does the Moon. (quick search). As well in NYC the planetarium is a wonderful place to view and learn about this.
http://www.badastronomy.com/bad/misc/dark_side.html
"You can see that the dark side of the Moon is just simply the night side of the Moon. It is no more a fixed feature than the night side of the Earth. "
http://www.badastronomy.com/bad/misc/dark_side.html
"You can see that the dark side of the Moon is just simply the night side of the Moon. It is no more a fixed feature than the night side of the Earth. "
3
Tell that to Pink Floyd.
Or Steven Spielberg.
"If everything's ready here on the Dark Side of the Moon... play the five tones."
Or Steven Spielberg.
"If everything's ready here on the Dark Side of the Moon... play the five tones."
1
About 3-years ago, our astronomy club -- at a star party in Santa Fe, NM -- had a chance to meet and talk with astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson, of the recent "Cosmos" series on FOX. (It was filmed at a studio just south of town).
I asked him what he thought about a human mission to Mars. Don't remember his exact words (he talked about it at some length), but my general impression was that he felt it had little merit -- pretty stupid -- and dangerous.
He now seems more moderated in his criticism. Still...makes me wonder -- about NASA...and especially about all those willing to go there. Are we kidding ourselves?
I asked him what he thought about a human mission to Mars. Don't remember his exact words (he talked about it at some length), but my general impression was that he felt it had little merit -- pretty stupid -- and dangerous.
He now seems more moderated in his criticism. Still...makes me wonder -- about NASA...and especially about all those willing to go there. Are we kidding ourselves?
3
Yes, we are kidding ourselves. We might one day send a team of temporary visitors, but, like our moon missions, that will be the end of it. If there were any real purpose to our presence on the moon, we'd still be there. If we ever get to Mars, it will be the same story. But don't take my word for it; ask astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson.
4
Agreed, John. I was an aero-space engineer on the Apollo Program, so long ago.
And, after doing that for nearly 7-years I quit b/c there did not seem to be any real "purpose" for going there -- except Moon rocks. We have so many more pressing problems here on Earth.
Granted, there have been some technological innovations and spin-offs from Apollo. But my argument has always been, why have a "spin-off" -- apply the funds directly, for similar research here on Earth.
Fellow engineers were not enamoured with this perspective. Many things I liked about the work there, but on balance, it seemed purposeless.
And, after doing that for nearly 7-years I quit b/c there did not seem to be any real "purpose" for going there -- except Moon rocks. We have so many more pressing problems here on Earth.
Granted, there have been some technological innovations and spin-offs from Apollo. But my argument has always been, why have a "spin-off" -- apply the funds directly, for similar research here on Earth.
Fellow engineers were not enamoured with this perspective. Many things I liked about the work there, but on balance, it seemed purposeless.
Mr. Damon couldn't carry Jimmy Stewart's lunch.
6
Sorry, what's the point of that comment? No one suggested he was Mr. Stewart.
3
Actually, the reviewer did. Reread the last paragraph of her review.
1
Dating yourself a little bit... "in my day"
2
Andy Weir, author of The Martian, could not find a traditional publisher to consider his book; thus, the unknown bard self-published using Amazon's CreateSpace platform. He sold the book as a Kindle download for $.99, the lowest allowable price. He gave away chapters on his personal website to build a fan base. His book's success began fitfully with persistent self-promotion among a small but expanding group of online fans. Then Broadway Books noticed, and 18,167 Amazon reader reviews later, averaging 4.5 out of 5 stars, Weir's book now ranks #2 among the Top 100 books.
The story of Andy Weir is actually as important as that of the film's vaunted director, Ridley Scott. Scott has made Weir's career going forward, but Weir has revitalized Scott's career by conceiving a story that's perfect for blockbuster success.
Who is the true artist in this collaboration: the guy who faced Hemingway's terrifying "white buffalo" -- an empty page of paper awaiting words -- and created a compelling and ingenious story, or the guy who ran with the story and made it into a film with all the resources of Hollywood at his beckon call?
It's typical and a travesty when movie reviewers give the storyteller scant mention while heaping praise on the filmmaker who merely brings the story to the "big screen." Without the story, and the tenacity of an unknown writer, there would be no film to further elevate the director.
The story of Andy Weir is actually as important as that of the film's vaunted director, Ridley Scott. Scott has made Weir's career going forward, but Weir has revitalized Scott's career by conceiving a story that's perfect for blockbuster success.
Who is the true artist in this collaboration: the guy who faced Hemingway's terrifying "white buffalo" -- an empty page of paper awaiting words -- and created a compelling and ingenious story, or the guy who ran with the story and made it into a film with all the resources of Hollywood at his beckon call?
It's typical and a travesty when movie reviewers give the storyteller scant mention while heaping praise on the filmmaker who merely brings the story to the "big screen." Without the story, and the tenacity of an unknown writer, there would be no film to further elevate the director.
152
What a great backstory! Thank you for sharing this.
4
It's a movie review.
4
@Brent: Excellent, thank you for the insight.
2
I used to be a Matt Damon fan, but after he completely obtuse remarks about diversity in Hollywood, I can't help but have a knee jerk negative reaction to all his projects. Ms. Dhargis reinforces the uniformity that is Hollywood by calling him an "Everyman," perhaps because Hollywood seems to casts his type in every movie (see "Interstellar"). Would she have said the same about an actor of color? (doubtful). He is most definitely NOT "our Jimmy Stewart."
6
@apa: Your comment is an exact reflection of what Mr. Damon so correctly identified in his "obtuse remarks" - as any comprehending and aware person heard, he was simply saying that actors need a bit of anonymity to do their job well, which is to portray a variety of personalities and personas, without any prejudicial preconceptions on the part of the viewer. By prejudicial, that simply means the viewer should not inject his/her perceptions of the actor's personal life into their portrayal of the screen persona. It really isn't that deep, but APA is doing just that when he admits he now is injecting his personal perception of Mr. Damon into his (Damon's) acting. Let it go, enjoy Mr. Damon's professionalism - and debate his personal beliefs and statements on an appropriate forum.
24
What Mr. Damon actually said regarding diversity was that you're supposed to do it in the casting of the film (actors) and not the show (the directors) and dismissing the impact that diverse contributors behind the camera may have to the product. But thanks for being even more personally dismissive of my remarks than Mr. Damon was of Effie Brown -- I'd like to think that I am a "comprehending and aware person." But that aside, I'm not criticizing the movie or his portrayal at all -- I'm criticizing Ms. Dhargis' review (seems like this is the right forum for that). I'm sure it's a fine movie -- it was a good book, but Matt Damon is also trading on his celebrity to promote the movie. It's perfectly appropriate to reflect on his celebrity and public statements in my reaction to the movie (again, seems like the right forum for that) and decision as to whether I want to contribute to his paycheck.
His remarks were fine... everyone is getting into a tizzy about straightforward and true remarks. Give it a rest, PC police.
I'm glad this review acknowledges 1964's "Robinson Crusoe on Mars". Seek it out to enjoy the artistry of the late actor and writer Paul Mantee undertaking the same solo role. I have to believe Mr. Damon is aware of it.
10
A dreary, wet weekend on the East Coast, sad news from the Pacific Northwest, and ho-hum jobs numbers versus an optimistic movie taking place away from Earth that gets a positive review in the Times. If this movie isn't the top grosser of the weekend, there's something very wrong with the world.
27
One can only hope that this movie will be watched by some of the boneheads in Congress who use the NASA budget as a punching bag, so they realize the importance of manned space travel. Having a colony on Mars is clearly obtainable and might focus humans away from our endless inward directed strife and warfare to the greater external universe.
48
Now I have to go see it ... sounds a little bit like the movie Apollo 13, where the NASA geeks dump duct tape, socks, plastic tubing, etc., on the table in an overhead shot and one engineer says "This is what they've got to get them home." And they figure it out and it works. Goosebumps!
31
One of the best scenes in the film and then there is Tom Hanks line (as Jim Lovell, mission commander) Breath, guys!
1
The Martian is one of my favorite books of all time. It will be fun to see how Matt Damon inhabits the character of Mark Watney. And the science - how wonderful to have intelligent art to enjoy.
6
The nice thing about Apollo 13 (besides it being a great film) is that it proves that all those hokey, last-minute, build-it-out-of-nothing fixes really CAN happen - because it did!
1
Am sorry that you declined to display my comment comparing this movie to Robert Frost's Tuft of Flowers.
The thought of Frost's poem is that while physically alone, we find the comforting presence of others who participate in the entire endeavour.
Others who have mowed before, will come later. Part of a larger activity whether on a farm in New Hampshire, or a based on Mars.
Sounds like a great movie.
The thought of Frost's poem is that while physically alone, we find the comforting presence of others who participate in the entire endeavour.
Others who have mowed before, will come later. Part of a larger activity whether on a farm in New Hampshire, or a based on Mars.
Sounds like a great movie.
6
Reminds me of my favorite poem
Robert Frost's Tuft of Flowers,
-- on Mars.
Robert Frost's Tuft of Flowers,
-- on Mars.
2
Both my husband and I read and really liked the novel and, when we hearts that Matt Damon was playing the title role, thought "He's a perfect choice!" We are looking forward to seeing the film. Definitely not a kid's story only, with lots of science stuff for the science wonks.
I usually wait for the videos these days, since I have never been one for the dark movie theater and popcorn routine, but I will probably see this one at our local multiplex.
I usually wait for the videos these days, since I have never been one for the dark movie theater and popcorn routine, but I will probably see this one at our local multiplex.
7
I'll go see it because I already know it'll be beautiful to look at, as are all Ridley Scott films. I'm still amazed that "Blade Runner" was made without CGI. The man has style.
19
"Mr. Daniels’s Daffy Duck mouth-flapping." That is so freaking funny. Thank you for making me smile. Because of you, I'll never look at Jeff Daniels the same way again.
4
Jeff Daniels has a great range - from Dumb & Dumber to The Crossing to The Newsroom. Don't underestimate him!
1
He is Daffy Duck.
& don't forget the swashbuckler in "The Purple Rose of Cairo"...
The rating at the end: " "The Martian" is rated PG (Parents strongly cautioned). Life, death and science".
So parents are now cautioned when there is science in movies? It's come to this?
So parents are now cautioned when there is science in movies? It's come to this?
68
(I haven't seen the movie but...)
The rating is probably due to language. If the Matt Damon character speaks as he does in the book, it's quite "frank language". It's the way I'd talk too if I were in his situation; none of this "Oh shoot!" stuff for me.
The rating is probably due to language. If the Matt Damon character speaks as he does in the book, it's quite "frank language". It's the way I'd talk too if I were in his situation; none of this "Oh shoot!" stuff for me.
6
John, I don't know who writes those NYT warnings after the rating but they are often used in a humorous manner. I feel quite confident in saying that the "and science" part is meant to be funny.
11
The ratings at the end are usually tongue-in-cheek.
Having seen the movie last night, the main thing parents would care about is a great deal of (comic yet appropriate given the circumstances) swearing.
Having seen the movie last night, the main thing parents would care about is a great deal of (comic yet appropriate given the circumstances) swearing.
1
I'm very much looking forward to seeing this movie, in part because the genre of optimistic science just-barely-fiction is very appealing to me in these dark times. The book was terrific and I drove on through it in one 24-hour period (less than a sol!).
The only reason I won't see the movie today is that my wife is still finishing the book. But after that, it's popcorn time!
The only reason I won't see the movie today is that my wife is still finishing the book. But after that, it's popcorn time!
8
A wonderful story of man's survival in a hostile alien environment. A science/engineering class tour de force that should inspire some kids to seek out these careers. Parents should take and go with their kids. Should make for great discussions. Really looking forward to the film.
9
After reading this review, the movie better be really good! I expect it will be, if some of Ridley Scott's previous work sets an example. Thankfully, no PC baloney in here about Damon's recent interview remarks, which were a hill of beans IMO.
2
Science... rationalism, manifest destiny...American can-do-ism and a little flag waving; sounds like this film is landing right on schedule. Like another space movie, Apollo 13, this work promises to be about people coolly solving problems, problems created by people. If that's not America, what is? Let no one doubt that American exceptionalism, a positive, force for good exceptionalism, is real. And there's nothing wrong with a little Cecil B. De Mille meets Stanley Kubrick either.
1
To save time and skip this review, here's all you need to know: "Mr. Damon’s Everyman quality (he’s our Jimmy Stewart)...." LOL. Not quite.
A decade ago our James Stewart was Tom Hanks. Who'll be next?
No idea, but chances are he'll still be called our James Stewart.
No idea, but chances are he'll still be called our James Stewart.
So now we know for sure NASA on its Website and the scientists who announced claims of water molecules in rocks pictured in photos from 4 years ago by chance announced this week are conspiring with a big budget movie study to drive ticket sales.
In return the Mars "lobby" is able to keep getting billions of our tax dollars from the gov't for never ending Mars missions that discover nothing much while encouraging the fantasy that humans will soon travel to this giant desert planet to live along and prosper.
Sounds like a sucker deal for the American people.
In return the Mars "lobby" is able to keep getting billions of our tax dollars from the gov't for never ending Mars missions that discover nothing much while encouraging the fantasy that humans will soon travel to this giant desert planet to live along and prosper.
Sounds like a sucker deal for the American people.
2
Remember when Americans had high aspirations?
Here's a reminder courtesy of President Kennedy:
"We choose to go to the moon. We choose to go to the moon in this decade and do the other things, not because they are easy, but because they are hard, because that goal will serve to organize and measure the best of our energies and skills, because that challenge is one that we are willing to accept, one we are unwilling to postpone, and one which we intend to win, and the others, too."
Nowadays, our biggest goals are cutting taxes and hiding from gunfire. It's sad, really.
Here's a reminder courtesy of President Kennedy:
"We choose to go to the moon. We choose to go to the moon in this decade and do the other things, not because they are easy, but because they are hard, because that goal will serve to organize and measure the best of our energies and skills, because that challenge is one that we are willing to accept, one we are unwilling to postpone, and one which we intend to win, and the others, too."
Nowadays, our biggest goals are cutting taxes and hiding from gunfire. It's sad, really.
42
We should all send your comment to our representatives in Congress.
Happy, happy I get to review this motion picture, movie, flic, what ever first.
With plodding plot, and no character development and all the $$$ up on the wall for the Computer Graphics -- maybe they can keep us from boredom.
If it was not for Matt's mumbling and talking into his journal we would have no distractions. Well, just keep in mind that this is a slightly disguised ADD for NASA -- all those White Males were worried about their bonuses and paychecks, since Obama saw what a bondogle it is and cut their budget.
If we are lucky in the next 100 to 200 years, after tearing apart this planet we might just get to Mars and destroy it! Fat chance -- every single person alive on Earth at this moment bill be DEAD before anyone sets a foot on Mars!
But ain't it grand to watch a fantasy about that?
With plodding plot, and no character development and all the $$$ up on the wall for the Computer Graphics -- maybe they can keep us from boredom.
If it was not for Matt's mumbling and talking into his journal we would have no distractions. Well, just keep in mind that this is a slightly disguised ADD for NASA -- all those White Males were worried about their bonuses and paychecks, since Obama saw what a bondogle it is and cut their budget.
If we are lucky in the next 100 to 200 years, after tearing apart this planet we might just get to Mars and destroy it! Fat chance -- every single person alive on Earth at this moment bill be DEAD before anyone sets a foot on Mars!
But ain't it grand to watch a fantasy about that?
2
Correction to my next too last sentence "every single person will be DEAD...
i stumbled onto the book at the pubic library
may I recom,mend it? first?
may I recom,mend it? first?
4
Read the book- it's terrific! Will see the movie tomorrow!
2
This movie is smart, wonderful entertainment. Being the father of a 15-year-old, I especially appreciated how the film unabashedly celebrates critical thinking, rigorous inquiry, and plain, old hard work. Hopefully, this film can inspire the rising generation the way Star Trek did for many of us who now sport a grey hair or two. Bonus points for a great disco soundtrack. Ms. Dargis' review is spot on, but two things she omitted noting: This film is going to receive multiple Oscar nods (deservedly so) -- and it is going to make a pile of money (also deservedly so). Go see this movie. You will be glad you did.
44
The Book was nerd-engineer-naturalist Manna and Ridley is the right Director for this adaptation in my humble non-engineer, non-naturalist, non-cinema opinion. I hope this movie is the bacon to make this chocolate treat perfect.
3
Bacon and chocolate complementing each other perfectly.
"Like bacon for Chocolate".
"Like bacon for Chocolate".
Mat Damon is our Jimmy Stewart? Ridiculous. And pathetic. Please turn in your critic credentials forthwith.
@Klosty:
I think she's alluding to his "everyman" screen persona. Spielberg spotted it early on, why he signed him early in project development to play Private Ryan in "Saving Private Ryan" -- for a relatively small fee.
I think she's alluding to his "everyman" screen persona. Spielberg spotted it early on, why he signed him early in project development to play Private Ryan in "Saving Private Ryan" -- for a relatively small fee.
1
Such a positive review - and it's not a Critic's Choice? I don't get it.
3
Matt Damon is many things, many of them good, but he is not our Jimmy Stewart.
2
I love reading movie reviews and have been doing so for years -- in my humble opinion this is the best yet from Ms. Dargis.
4
I have just seen it. This review doesn't do it justice. It's awe inspiring.
A brilliant, inspiring and moving film. A great return to form from Scott and Damon. And a must see for fans of great science-drama films. Make sure you see it on a big screen; the direction and cinematography are breathtaking.
A brilliant, inspiring and moving film. A great return to form from Scott and Damon. And a must see for fans of great science-drama films. Make sure you see it on a big screen; the direction and cinematography are breathtaking.
25
Loved the book. Can't wait to see Scott's take.
3
I assume Dargis knows this, but a story in this genre is called a "Robinsonade." It's been a very common style in fiction over the last few hundred years.
I would hardly call Damon our Jimmy Stewart. Could anyone really see Stewart as Jason Bourne or Linus Caldwell? I think Tom Hanks would be much closer to a modern Jimmy Stewart: an everyman who is equally gifted in both comic and tragic roles. Damon is very talented but usually portrays exceptional characters.
I would hardly call Damon our Jimmy Stewart. Could anyone really see Stewart as Jason Bourne or Linus Caldwell? I think Tom Hanks would be much closer to a modern Jimmy Stewart: an everyman who is equally gifted in both comic and tragic roles. Damon is very talented but usually portrays exceptional characters.
15
Interesting focus on the question of what it is to be human. I read somewhere that NASA had either advised or approved after the pact the psychological portrait of the marooned astronaut presented in this movie. He is not a person that ponders human and existential philosophical issues. He is a "doer," a "problem solver" selected for the job because of that pragmatic inclination and not a contemplative one. One who even if in a terminal situation is geared to die involved in some busywork, however trivial and futile, rather than to ponder the cosmos or his human condition or his predicament at the time of death. That is why this character is always talking and doing. Not an introspective figure. No time for epiphanies here.
7
Md, I'm sure you're a good speaker -- this is a rousing note. Just one small point. It's because people wonder that people wander. Hey, without doing and determination, we get nothing. But it starts with looking across the big ocean and then the enormous sky and saying "What's out there?" It's natural of course that this comes with questions about meaning -- it's all wonder. Humans at our best can do both.
3
book was amazing... and a positive story of hope.... One of the world coming together to help save this one man... right now i think a story like that is needed...
3
Those 'similarly rust colored formations' of rock should be less John-Ford- Monument-Valley-familiar and more familiar to viewers of David Lean's "Lawrence of Arabia" as they are exactly where "Lawrence" was shot, a place called Wadi Lam in Jordan. It's the same valley where Auda Abu Tayi invites Lawrence and Sharif Ali to dine with him.
21
Loved the book...a celebration of science, resourcefulness and good, smart people helping one another. Wonderful review for what sounds like a wonderful movie.
30
Excellent movie. Excellent review.
11
Didn't much care for this movie. Seemed a Frankenstein collection of all other space movie rescue drama, but without any of the emotional depth of Moon, Solaris or even Castaway.
2
Well, at least you paid to see it. They need the money.
1
Wow, what a glowing tribute to Ridley Scott, to the cast and to this apparently terrific movie.
3
Saving Private Ryan on Mars is as empty as outer space. Matt Damon's breezy glibness undermines his catastrophic predicament, as did George Clooney's in the similarly spectacular and vacuous Gravity. The 'meanwhile, back on Earth' scenes are peopled by smug 'brainiacs' who talk in the jargonistic fantasy of efficiency and teamwork which became a fetish and a cliche on The West Wing. The 'meanwhile, people watching from around the world' scenes were naff 40 years ago. Vibrantly colourful space suits, though.
4
@Keevan:
Very good.
Yes. "Saving Private Ryan on Mars" would probably be the log line pitched at a meeting. Or, "MacGyver On Mars".
As for their characters' grating onscreen personas I agree with you this much: Clooney so tested my patience that I almost walked out of "Gravity".
If "The Martian" used a split-location plot device to move the story forward it might have hurt it. After the multi-collision catastrophe Bullock's astronaut character never successfully contacted "Houston". It helped by concentrating focus on her, making it a "Perils of Pauline in near-Earth-orbit" story.
Very good.
Yes. "Saving Private Ryan on Mars" would probably be the log line pitched at a meeting. Or, "MacGyver On Mars".
As for their characters' grating onscreen personas I agree with you this much: Clooney so tested my patience that I almost walked out of "Gravity".
If "The Martian" used a split-location plot device to move the story forward it might have hurt it. After the multi-collision catastrophe Bullock's astronaut character never successfully contacted "Houston". It helped by concentrating focus on her, making it a "Perils of Pauline in near-Earth-orbit" story.
But no cute robot (or monkey) to keep him company.
I dunno. I think it needs a cute robot.
I dunno. I think it needs a cute robot.
4
Or at least a cute volleyball, perhaps?
I loved the film AND this comment.
1
What a well written, captivating review of The Martian, which I want to see even more after reading this. What I most appreciated about this review is that it is not at all ambiguous; it's clear that Ms. Dhargis liked this film.
38
Ditto. I read the book 'by chance' on Kindle as I knew nothing about it and loved it. Delighted it's a movie.
BTW, Dargis' comment about Watney's 'talking out loud' carrying us along with him is -- at least for me -- what was missing in Robert Redford's "Lost at Sea"
BTW, Dargis' comment about Watney's 'talking out loud' carrying us along with him is -- at least for me -- what was missing in Robert Redford's "Lost at Sea"
4
The sequel to 2001 and humanity's grasping the spaceman astronaut recovery when math, machines and human minds solve together successful goals - and it's only going to get better - as this find is the vision of this heroic film's j0ourney on Earth